thanks for the replies
Interesting thought prathmann. Am I right in thinking you mean removing the (destroyed) rear derailleur completely, shortening the chain so it's the right length on one cog and getting the tension right by moving the wheel horizontally?
sorry I've never delved into the single speed thang :/
Don't most single speeds use a nut rather than a quick release on the rear axle? I did a conversion like this on a winter beater bike and found I had to make the nut pretty tight to avoid the rear wheel slipping.
Paul